Sunderland As Important As Chelsea

Alex Ferguson's near 20-year stint at United includes two double-winning campaigns and the momentous treble in 1999, and he knows all about winning.

A run of 10 wins from 11 matches suggests there is not too much wrong with the Red Devils just now. But it is the one game in that sequence his side did not win, the incredible goalless draw with Sunderland at Old Trafford on Good Friday, which the United boss believes will have the most telling impact.

Ferguson: 'Sometimes young players just need that final lesson before it really gets through and the Sunderland game was a reminder for everyone of what can happen.

'Winning games against Sunderland is just as important as winning games against Arsenal, Liverpool or Chelsea. Each carries the same value.

'But we were too individualistic. Hopefully, we can benefit from that next year.

'Chelsea need a point and it doesn't matter how they get it.

'The strongest aspect of their team is defence, so they may set out with a system designed to get the point. Their main priority will be to get it over with as quickly as possible.'